Tom-406 Reviews

Gods and Generals (2003)

Highly recommended; don't listen to the critics. Great film.

[10/10 · 24 February 2003]

Gods and Generals (despite the ravages of many critics) is a very good film. The acting, writing, cinematography are all of top quality. Billy Crystal once said, "We know where we would be without the critics, but where would they be without us?" This film is historically accurate, deeply moving, and with outstanding acting by all concerned. Stephen Lang's performance of Stonewall Jackson should be remembered at Oscar time. Some critics condemn it as being sympathetic with the Southern cause. Jeff Daniels and others give their side in eloquent dialogue for their feelings on the conflict. I suppose Gone With the Wind would be criticized the same if released today. Since the story revolves around Stonewall Jackson it will obviously give his point of view on the subject also. The religious overtones given by the characters of both sides conformed with the religious feelings of the times that is lacking today and as such it gives the critics something else to condemn. And the moving scene with human emotions between Jackson and the little Corbin girl brings the human touch to the character. What is wrong with the critics....they must have slept through most the film. They say it is pro-slavery. There are at least three fine speeches by Martha, Jim Lewis and Lawrence Chamberlain bringing out the wrongness of that issue. Even Jackson says that slavery should be abandoned. Such is a great movie trashed by the critics and they miss the whole reason for this masterpiece. I give it ten stars. See it, and decide for yourself about this film. Every minute of it's close to four hours is worth it. Yep. Yep. And Yep.

American Outlaws (2001)

A western that stays true to the genre.

[22 August 2001]

American Outlaws was a real pleasure to watch. Growing up on westerns, I really enjoyed this one for a number of reasons. First, the writer wove together a western true to its form and created characters that kept us interested. I was pleased it gave a different story to Jesse James than has been done over and over. The historical facts were there (the Civil War), the railroad stealing the land, forming an outlaw band to fight the railroad), but then it followed its own story. Second, the cast was great. From old-timers like Timothy Dalton, Harris Yulin, Kathy Bates, Ronny Cox and Terry O'Quinn to the younger folks including Colin Farrell, Scott Caan, Ali Larter, Gabriel Macht (whose dad Stephen was also a good actor), Will McCormick and Gregory Smith. They all did fine. Some films when younger actors are placed in a western they don't seem to know how to act in that genre of film. In this case they knew and did good. This has been my favorite western since Ed Harris' Riders of the Purple Sage (although I also enjoyed Tom Selleck's Crossfire Creek and Sam Elliott's You Know My Name.) And this is a film that you can enjoy if you are not a western fan. Once again, well written, directed, photographed and acted. A scene involving a raid on a train is fabulous. Do yourself a favor and go see this one.

Himalaya (1999)

A poetic experience not to be missed.

[15 December 1999]

My brother Jim and I had the opportunity to see this film (under the title of Caravan) at a theatre in Kathmandu. A poetic wonder; cinematically a masterpiece. If it comes your way, do not miss it. You'll be moved by this film.

Riders of the Purple Sage (1996 TV Movie)

A GREAT WESTERN.

[10/10 · 15 November 1999]

Enjoyed the story, acting, photography and location (Moab, Utah). They don't make many westerns (or movies, for that matter) like this anymore. Watch it. You'll like it. Ed Harris was nominated for best actor in Screen Actors Awards from best TV drama for his performance. Well deserved, and if I remember correctly, I believe he won the award.